Lesson kit: Simeon and Anna Meet Baby Jesus

Lesson aim

God always keeps his promises, even when we have to wait a long time.

Key verse

“When the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought him up to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord.” Luke 2:22

Lesson plan

1. 1

   Welcome · 5 minutes

   Greet the children, sing a song they know and say a short prayer.

2. 2

   The story · 10 minutes

   Tell the story with the illustrations on the big screen or by reading it aloud, page by page.

   Open on the big screen →
3. 3

   Talk · 10 minutes

   Ask the questions below and let the children answer in their own words.

4. 4

   Activity · 10 minutes

   Hand out the printed sheet: each child draws their favourite scene and practises the verse.

5. 5

   Closing prayer · 2 minutes

   Close by thanking God for what you learned today. God always keeps his promises, even when we have to wait a long time.

Discussion questions

1. Why did Mary and Joseph take Jesus to the temple?
2. What had God promised Simeon?
3. What is your family waiting and praying to God for?

Summary for the teacher

Mary and Joseph took baby Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem to present him to God. Simeon was there, a righteous man to whom the Holy Spirit had revealed that he would see the Christ before he died. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying that his eyes had seen salvation and that Jesus would be a light for the nations. The prophetess Anna, who served God in the temple night and day, also came, gave thanks, and spoke about the child to everyone.